Volunteer of the Month – March

Dicken

No doubt about it, we wish there were more people like this in the world!

Meet Dicken. He is the sort of person that goes about his volunteering work quietly in the background, doing his thing. He’s the sort of volunteer that when we find mysterious but much needed items at kennels that seem to have come from thin air (buckets, bags, etc) it’s a bet Dicken is behind it because he never makes a fuss about his contributions! Thank you Dicken for everything you do!

1.When and how did you first get involved with GR?

I started volunteering at the current kennels about 18 months ago. I came across GR when I was looking for a greyhound to adopt a few years ago and used to help out at the previous GR kennel which was smaller and as well equipped as the current one.

2.Do you have any greyhounds or dogs of your own?

I used to have a greyhound but sadly it passed away about 20 months ago. Before that I had two golden retrievers. I’m looking to adopt another one hopefully in the very near future (a greyhound of course).

3.What do you find most challenging about GR?

I guess the most challenging part of GR is to change people’s misconception about greyhounds. Many people still think greyhounds are vicious animals because they are muzzled when they are out in public or when they race and because of that some people don’t see greyhounds as family pets. But gladly due to the recent publicity of greyhound racing and the on-going education from animal charity groups such as GR, more and more people now realize greyhounds can be wonderful family pets.

4.Why do you support GR as opposed to other rescue groups?

I was researching greyhounds a while ago when I was looking to adopt one and came across GR and was really impressed by the effort and determination of Peter and Janet (founders of GR) in saving abandoned greyhounds. Being a small non-profit charity organization without any government subsidies they rely heavily on help from volunteers and sponsors/donors.

5.When your friends or family find out that you volunteer what do they say or ask?

They are really supportive and love to know more about greyhounds. Some are even considering greyhounds as they next pets!

6.What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering

You won’t regret it. Thinking about what the dogs went through before they arrive at GR and seeing the transformation the dogs make at GR will bring a smile to your face and your heart.

7.What do you do when you aren’t volunteering or working?

Chillaxing and sleeping.

8. What might someone be surprised to learn about you

I love coffee. I may have 6-7 cups of ristretto a day and still manage to fall asleep on the couch by 8PM!

9. If you could use three words only to describe greyhounds, what would they be?

Lazy, easy-going, funny.

10. And lastly, who is your favourite kennel kid at the moment and why!

They’re all my favourites but if I really have to pick one it’d be Humphrey. Whenever he sees you he can’t wait to jump up to give you lots of kisses on your face (and muddy paw prints on your shirt on a rainy day).